Related Links

Monte Carlo, Principality of Monaco - Sebastien Ogier begins his quest for a fourth successive world rally title on Thursday (Jan 21) in the plush surroundings of Monte Carlo at the start of a competition which is expected again to be easy pickings for Volkswagen.

Ogier wrapped up his third world crown with three races to spare in 2015 while Volkswagen dominated the Constructors' championship, ending the season with almost twice as many points as Citroen.

The Monte Carlo race is in its 84th edition and Ogier has already three wins under his belt - in 2009 with Peugeot and in 2014 and 2015 behind the wheel of a VW Polo-R.

'VW has the best three drivers'

"All modesty aside, I think VW has the best three current drivers," said Ogier of team mates Jari-Matti Latvala and Andreas Mikkelsen who were second and third last season.

"Transparency is very high within the team. Even our last-minute choice of tyres is known to our team mates. The difference will be in the driving seat."

Ogier won eight of the 13 rounds in 2015 with Latvala claiming three and Mikkelsen just the one.